Wake Service Program Sample: Creating a Meaningful Tribute

Planning a wake service can be a difficult and emotional experience, but it is also an opportunity to create a meaningful tribute for your loved one. A wake service program is an essential component of the service, providing guests with a schedule of events, information about the deceased, and a keepsake to treasure long after the service has ended. In this article, we’ll share a sample wake service program and offer tips for creating a personalized program that honors your loved one’s life.

Sample Wake Service Program

Here is a basic outline for a wake service program:

Cover

  • Name, photo, and birth/death dates of the deceased
  • Title (e.g. “In Loving Memory of…”)
  • Date, time, and location of the service

Welcome and Opening Remarks

  • Greeting from the officiant/clergy
  • Acknowledgment of guests
  • Explanation of the service format and purpose

Eulogy

  • A tribute to the deceased, highlighting their life, accomplishments, and character
  • May be given by a family member, friend, or clergy member

Music

  • Live or recorded music that was meaningful to the deceased
  • May include hymns, popular songs, or instrumental pieces

Readings and Prayers

  • Religious or secular texts that provide comfort and inspiration
  • May be read by the officiant/clergy or a family member

Reflection Time

  • A moment of silence or meditation to honor the deceased and allow guests to reflect on their memories and feelings

Closing Remarks

  • Thank you to guests for attending and supporting the family
  • Announcement of any post-service events or gatherings

Back Cover

  • Additional photos and information about the deceased
  • Contact information for the funeral home or family

Tips for Personalizing Your Wake Service Program

While the sample program above provides a basic structure, there are many ways to make your program unique and meaningful. Here are some tips for personalizing your wake service program:

Choose a Theme

If your loved one had a favorite hobby, interest, or quote, consider incorporating it into the program design or content. For example, if they were an avid gardener, you could include floral graphics and a quote about nurturing life. Or, if they had a favorite song lyric, you could use it as a header for each section of the program.

Include Photos

Photos are a powerful way to honor your loved one’s life and provide comfort to guests. Consider using a mix of childhood, family, and recent photos, and including captions or brief anecdotes that highlight special moments or qualities of the deceased.

Write a Personal Message

The back cover of the program is a great place to include a personal message from the family. This could be a heartfelt thank you, a favorite quote, or a message of hope and resilience. You could also include information about your loved one’s favorite charity or cause, and invite guests to make a donation in their honor.

Get Creative with Layout and Design

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to program design. You could use a non-traditional shape or size, incorporate unique textures or materials, or experiment with typography and color. Just make sure that the design is legible and easy to follow.

Why use FuneralPamphlet.com?

At FuneralPamphlet.com, we understand the importance of creating a personalized and meaningful tribute for your loved one. That’s why we offer a wide range of customizable funeral program templates, including options for wake service programs. Our templates are easy to use, affordable, and can be downloaded and printed from the comfort of your own home. Plus, our customer support team is available to answer any questions you may have along the way. Let us help you create a beautiful and lasting tribute to your loved one.